Trends

Trends & Inspiration by Independente

Travel trends for the new year: nature, gastronomy, and identity-driven stays

The new year brings fresh ways of traveling, new experiences, and a growing demand for authenticity. Today’s travelers don’t just want to visit destinations – they want to feel, taste, and live each place in a unique way. The major travel trends for this year revolve around three pillars: naturegastronomy, and identity-driven stays.

Across our hotels, each property reflects these trends in its own distinctive way, offering experiences that go far beyond accommodation.


Comporta – The power of nature

In Comporta, the journey begins with the sound of the ocean and the scent of pine forests. Here, the trend of nature comes alive in every detail:

Architecture integrated into the landscape, respecting the environment.

Outdoor experiences, from cycling to dune walks.

An invitation to disconnect digitally and reconnect with what truly matters.

Stay at Independente Comporta and enjoy local flavors at Maroto or Bóia.


Bica – Culture you can feel

In the heart of Lisbon, Bica is synonymous with culture. The neighborhood breathes history and tradition, and the hotel mirrors that identity:

Design inspired by old Lisbon, with contemporary touches.

Close to theaters, galleries, and cultural spaces.

A stay that is also an immersion into Lisbon’s vibrant life.

Stay at Independente Bica, where you can also enjoy creative dining at Bica San.


Príncipe Real – Cosmopolitan lifestyle

Príncipe Real is Lisbon’s epicenter of lifestyle. Here, the hotel embodies the neighborhood’s vibrant energy:

Modern, sophisticated spaces designed for those who value style and comfort.

Close to design shops, concept stores, and signature restaurants.

A stay that celebrates cosmopolitan flair and creativity.

Stay at Independente Príncipe Real and explore the Gandaia Club, home to The Decadente Restaurant and the Hidden Club, our rooftop bar with breathtaking views over Lisbon.


Sandeman – Wine as identity

In Porto, Sandeman is more than a hotel – it’s an experience rooted in the tradition of wine:

Rooms and spaces that pay tribute to the history of Sandeman cellars.

Exclusive tastings and unique wine experiences.

A stay that blends hospitality and wine tourism, celebrating the best of Portuguese culture.

Stay at The House of Sandeman and savor gastronomy at the Sandeman Terrace, overlooking the Douro River.


Traveling in 2026 means embracing authentic experiences, where every destination tells a story and every hotel reflects an identity. Whether it’s the tranquility of Comporta, the culture of Bica, the lifestyle of Príncipe Real, or the wine heritage of Sandeman, our hotels are the starting point for a journey that goes far beyond tourism – a journey of inspiration by Independente.


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